How is it that the same crime can carry different sentences? The answer lies in the particular factual details of the case, the strength of the evidence, and additional background factors the court considers when imposing the sentence. Every case is unique.
Sentencing guidelines look to reach a balance between punitive consequences, such as incarceration, probation, fines, and rehabilitative options, which includes treatment. To achieve this, numerous factors are taken into consideration. Before sentencing, New Jersey courts review:
- Aggravating factors – These include the gravity of harm inflicted on the victim/s, the need to deter others from violating the law, the risk of the defendant re-offending, and the defendant’s criminal history, amongst other factors.
New Jersey Criminal Lawyers Blog



False accusations are not as unusual as one may think, and they can take a heavy toll on the accused emotionally, raising feelings of anger, fear and frustration. Whether they are the result of mistaken identity, a misunderstanding, or malicious intent, false accusations are serious matters that can severely damage the accused’s reputation, relationships, and future opportunities depending on the nature of the claim.
In New Jersey, felonies are referred to as indictable offenses, misdemeanors as disorderly persons offenses. Indictable offenses are serious crimes with penalties ranging from 18 months to life in prison. Convictions carry lifelong consequences.
As the holiday season approaches, most people look forward to celebrations and feelings of good cheer. Those involved in abusive relationships, however, experience heightened tensions and fear instead.
When you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to remain at the scene and report the events to the appropriate authorities. In fact, you are legally required to do so. Accidents themselves are not crimes, but leaving the scene of one may subject you to
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious, dangerous practice not only for the offender but for their potential victims. Law enforcement agencies across the country treat it as such. While interdiction efforts and police presence are increased during certain times, particularly around holidays, patrols are always on the lookout for impaired drivers in hopes of preventing accidents before they happen.
Many people use their social media platforms to vent, boast, share family news, and connect with friends old and new. Some use their posts to incite reactions or encourage conversation. For the most part, your posts have little impact outside of your personal circle of followers unless, that is, you are facing
It is to be expected that a person convicted of a crime will be sentenced to time in jail or prison, which may be followed by a period of parole or another form of community supervision. The convicted individual may also be ordered to pay certain financial penalties in the form of fines, court fees and/or restitution to the victims of the crime or their families. Oftentimes, however, the penalties for committing a
Earlier this month, the American Bar Association held its 40th National Institute on White Collar Crime. This is the nation’s leading event for professionals in the enforcement and defense of white collar crimes. Among the highlights of this year’s event were discussions on healthcare fraud, digital currency-related crimes, and environmental crimes. But what exactly is
Chances are if you are looking for a criminal defense attorney, your needs are immediate. That doesn’t mean, however, that you shouldn’t do your due diligence to find the right attorney for your case.